Nail extensions add length, shape and strength by building on top of, or onto the tip of, your natural nail. They are a practical answer if your nails never seem to grow past a certain point, break easily or simply won't hold the shape you want. Renew & Revive Beauty is on Abide-i Hürriyet Avenue in Şişli, within walking distance of Mecidiyeköy and close to Nişantaşı and Bomonti. We keep extensions at a thickness that suits your nails so they look like your own, not like stick-ons.
Who Are Extensions For?
- Short nails or nails that grow very slowly
- Thin, brittle or peeling nails
- Anyone who wants longer, shaped nails that stay done for weeks
- Matching up a single broken nail with the rest
- Nail biters - see our dedicated extensions for nail biters page
Types of Nail Extensions
The most common methods are gel, acrylic, polygel and tips. We decide together which one suits you at the consultation, based on the condition of your natural nails, the length you want and your daily routine.
- Gel extensions: sculpted on a form and cured under a lamp; flexible, glossy and natural-looking. Read What Are Gel Nails? for more.
- Acrylic: a powder and liquid mix that sets hard and handles knocks well.
- Polygel: somewhere between gel and acrylic - light but strong.
- Tips: pre-shaped tips attached to the end of the nail and overlaid with gel or acrylic.
We compare them in detail in Types of Nail Extensions: Gel, Acrylic, Polygel and Tips.
Popular Shapes and Styles
Almond, oval, square, coffin (ballerina) and stiletto are the shapes we are asked for most. For colour and design, think nude tones, a classic French, baby boomer (an ombré French), a clean single colour or full nail art. For everyday life, a short to medium almond or oval is usually the most comfortable; longer, pointed shapes can take a few days to get used to. Bringing a photo of the look you like always helps.
The Process
- Consultation: we look at your nails and agree on length, shape and colour.
- Prep: cuticles are pushed back and the natural nail is lightly buffed and cleansed - no aggressive filing that thins the nail.
- Extension: length is built using a form or tips, depending on the method.
- Shaping: the shape is refined and the thickness balanced so it looks natural.
- Colour and finish: your chosen colour or design, sealed with a top coat.
A first full set takes around 60-90 minutes, depending on length and design.
How Long Do They Last? Infills and Care
Extensions grow out with your natural nail, so a gap appears at the base over time. We recommend an infill every 3-4 weeks; regular infills keep them looking good and reduce the risk of an overgrown extension snapping or lifting. At home, use cuticle oil, wear gloves for cleaning and never pull off a lifting extension.
Extensions or Gel Polish?
If your natural nails are already long and strong and you just want colour, a gel polish manicure is often enough. If you want length, shape and extra strength, extensions are the better fit. Our guide Acrylic Nails or Gel Polish? walks you through the choice.
Taking Extensions Off
Ripping or scraping extensions off at home takes layers of your natural nail with them. When you want to stop or start fresh, our nail removal service takes them off gently - including sets done at another salon.
Fungus, Infection or a Damaged Nail
We don't apply extensions over signs of fungus, infection, pain or a nail lifting from its bed: an extension hides the problem and can make it worse. Please see a dermatologist first and book with us once your doctor is happy.
To book nail extensions in Şişli or near Mecidiyeköy, message us on WhatsApp or call the salon.
